Moving Worlds: Time, Trade, and Medical Travel with Dr Diana Ibáñez-Tirado

In this episode of Fieldnotes: The Sussex Anthropology Podcast, host Dr Syeda Sana Batool sits down with Dr Diana Ibáñez-Tirado, Lecturer in Anthropology at the University of Sussex and a beloved figure in the department. With research spanning Tajikistan, Russia, Turkey, and beyond, Diana shares the story behind her non-linear academic journey — from studying International Relations and Russian to becoming an anthropologist of time, trade, and medical mobility.

Together, they discuss what connects her seemingly diverse projects, the ethical and practical dimensions of fieldwork across regions, and how gender and care subtly shape her work. Diana also offers a glimpse into her forthcoming book From the Heart of Kulob, and reflects on what excites her about the future of anthropology.

Whether you're planning your own fieldwork, thinking about cross-cultural research, or just curious about how anthropologists make sense of global movement and everyday life — this episode offers a thoughtful and inspiring listen.